Last month, I had the great honour to speak at the Hollywood Independent Music Awards, at the historic Avalon in Los Angeles, to celebrate the achievements of outstanding young artists from Ontario and around the world. I was thrilled to be able to present an award for best original recording to Neena Rose from Hamilton, for her song FYWO, and the award for best Latin pop/rock song to Ben Anthony Lavoz from Toronto, for the song Kan Can. Shylah Ray Sunshine, an Algonquin native from Ontario, was named best female vocalist of the year.

I want to thank Brent Harvey again for everything he does to help independent singers and songwriters who don’t have the resources of a major record label. Brent serves as executive producer of the Hollywood Music in Media Awards. Four years ago, when six Ontario artists were nominated, I was proud to recognize them right here in our chamber.

I also want to thank my friend Tina Cole, well known in Hollywood as Mama Swag, for everything she does to develop and mentor young Ontario artists. Earlier this month, at the 2023 Mississauga Music Awards, Tina was named industry person of the year, a well-deserved honour.

Again, I want to thank Tina and Brent, and on behalf of all the members, I want to congratulate Neena and Ben.

We are so proud of you, and we can’t wait to see what you do next. Congratulations.